Missing Rochester Hills Teen May Be in West Michigan, Authorities Seek Public's Help

ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. — The Oakland County Sheriff's Office is seeking assistance in locating 17-year-old Janella Arlene Nicholas, who has been missing since Friday, November 7, 2025.

Janella, a senior at the Alternative Center for Education within the Rochester Community Schools District, was last observed disembarking from her school bus around 3 p.m. on Friday. Subsequent investigations suggest she entered an older model Jeep Cherokee with an unidentified individual and departed the area.

Her father reported her absence later that evening when she failed to return home. Authorities now believe she may have traveled to the west side of the state, though specific locations remain unknown.

Janella is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing approximately 135 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a light-colored hooded sweatshirt, gray pants, and carrying a black backpack.

Anyone with information regarding Janella's whereabouts is urged to contact the Oakland County Sheriff's Office at 248-858-4950.

The community's vigilance and prompt reporting are crucial in ensuring Janella's safe return.